MTN Elite U19: Eastern Region reach Final after dramatic penalty shootout win over Greater Accra

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Eastern Region sealed their place in the grand finale of the maiden MTN Elite U19 Championship after a nerve-racking 9–8 penalty shootout victory over Greater Accra Region, following a pulsating 2–2 draw in regulation time at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Friday.

The thrilling first semi-final encounter lived up to its billing, producing high drama, three penalties and moments of breathtaking skill from both sides.

Eastern Region got off to a flying start when Desmond Tutu opened the scoring from the spot in just the 5th minute. However, their joy was short-lived as Greater Accra hit back almost immediately with a quick equalizer two minutes later.

Tutu once again rose to the occasion in the 78th minute, converting his second penalty of the afternoon to restore Eastern’s lead. But Greater Accra refused to back down, with Yussif Saani, later named Player of the Match, calmly slotting home another penalty in the 88th minute to send the tie into a tense shootout.

The penalty decider stretched into a marathon contest, with both teams showing nerves of steel. Ultimately, Greater Accra goalkeeper Emmanuel Vipo fired his kick over the bar, handing Eastern Region a dramatic 9–8 victory. Despite substitute Bawa Mahdi missing his attempt for Eastern, his teammates held their composure to secure a historic spot in the final.

Eastern Region will now face the winner of the second semi-final clash between Ashanti Region and Brong Ahafo Region on Sunday, November 2, 2025, as the curtain falls on what has been a thrilling and talent-filled championship.

Running from October 23 to November 2, 2025, the MTN Elite U19 Championship brings together ten regional teams from across Ghana, offering a vital platform for the nation’s most promising young footballers to showcase their abilities, gain valuable experience, and attract the attention of national selectors and professional scouts.

Proudly powered by MTN Ghana, the competition underscores the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) unwavering commitment to youth football development. Through structured and sustainable initiatives such as this, the GFA continues to chart a clear pathway from grassroots football to the professional stage — nurturing the next generation of Ghanaian football stars.